Celebrate MLK by helping others on day of service

New traditions often are among the best. One of these is the National Day of Service, which this year is today to coincide with the observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, on Monday.

The National Day of Service underscores what was unique about King and how he transformed America into a nation with a mature social conscience. Our United States also has its Presidents Day for elected leaders. King, even if he could have somehow risen to national office as a black man in the 1960s, probably would not have chosen that path, because it is one that's driven by personal ambition - and that was not his dream.

His life's work was about service to others - especially those who had no voice in the halls of power and who struggled to emerge from poverty and despair.

So, it is fitting that, along with our national holiday on Monday, we also emulate the Rev. King by taking a day to help an individual or the larger community. Volunteering opportunities this year are available on Saturday and on Monday and range from serving meals, collecting food and clothing, and helping military families to sprucing up public schools and weatherizing homes.

Go to http://mlkday.gov and follow the link for opportunities near you, or contact your favorite local volunteer organization to seek opportunities to make a difference - this weekend or anytime throughout the year.

King once said, "Life's persistent and most urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?' " How do you answer that call?